10 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Cairns and the Tropical North

Cairns and the Tropical North of Queensland are famous for their crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and lush rainforests. It’s a place where the water-based experiences are as diverse as the landscape itself. Whether you’re after a thrilling jet boat ride, a luxurious reef cruise, or a cultural Indigenous tour, this region offers something for all. We particularly love the Cairns Jet Boat Ride for adrenaline junkies and the Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip for those seeking a tranquil day among coral and fish. Plus, the Indigenous Cultural Tour gives a meaningful insight into the region’s First Nations heritage.

If you’re planning an escape to Cairns, this list will guide you through the top 15 cruises and boat tours with detailed insights to help you choose the right adventure for your style and budget. From short, high-speed trips to full-day reef explorations, each tour offers a unique experience worth considering.

1. Cairns Jet Boat Ride

Rating: 5.0/5 (429 reviews)
Price: $63.83 per person
Duration: 35 minutes

This 35-minute jet boat ride on Trinity Inlet is a perfect way to get your pulse racing. It zips around the calm waterways of Cairns with a burst of high-speed fun. Your expert captain will make the boat spin and slide, providing plenty of splash and adrenaline. Along the way, you’ll enjoy commentary on Cairns’ sights and keep an eye out for crocodiles and local wildlife. The ride includes all safety gear and a safety briefing, making it suitable for families, thrill-seekers, or anyone looking for a quick, exciting taste of the water.

What makes this tour stand out is its value for money—at just under $65, you get a fun, fast-paced adventure that’s great for a morning or afternoon. Many reviews highlight the friendly crew and the fact that everyone gets thoroughly soaked — in a good way. Perfect if you want a quick, memorable thrill in Cairns.

Bottom Line: For a fast-paced, family-friendly adventure that delivers pure excitement, the Cairns Jet Boat Ride is hard to beat.

2. Full-Day Great Barrier Reef Sailing Trip from Cairns

Rating: 5.0/5 (408 reviews)
Price: $179.31 per person
Duration: 9 hours

If you’re after a relaxing yet immersive reef experience, this full-day sailing trip is an excellent choice. The trip sails to Upolu Reef and a sheltered lagoon, where you can snorkel among marine life — including turtles, tropical fish, and colorful coral. The boat offers guided snorkeling, and kids under 14 get exposure suits, making it family-friendly. Lunch, snacks, and tea are included, so you won’t go hungry while floating over this pristine marine environment.

Traveling on a yacht, many find the peaceful sailing more enjoyable than crowded reef tours — plus, you’ll see more of the outer reef’s spectacular underwater life. Reviews praise the small group size, which enhances the personal experience, and many mention how attentive and friendly the crew is.

This tour is ideal for those who want to escape the crowds and enjoy the reef at a comfortable pace, with plenty of time to snorkel or just relax on deck.

Bottom Line: For a peaceful, all-day reef experience with a sailing vibe, this tour’s an excellent pick for families and lovers of marine life.

3. Kuranda Riverboat Sightseeing Cruise

Rating: 5.0/5 (325 reviews)
Price: $21.52 per person
Duration: 45 minutes

This river cruise on the Barron River offers a gentle, family-friendly way to see the rainforest’s wildlife. Multiple departures throughout the day make it flexible for your schedule. During this 45-minute voyage, you’ll spot native wildlife like turtles, crocodiles, and birds, all from the comfort of the boat. The informative guides tell lively stories about the region’s flora and fauna, making it both fun and educational.

What makes this cruise special is its fantastic value—at only about $22, it’s a budget-friendly way to connect with nature. The family-friendly nature and the chance to see wildlife in their habitat make it ideal for kids and nature lovers alike. Some reviewers mention a few stairs to manage, but overall, it’s a relaxing and enriching experience.

Bottom Line: If you want a quick, affordable wildlife cruise that’s perfect for families, this is a top choice.

4. Cairns Catamaran Harbour and Dinner Cruise

Rating: 4.5/5 (547 reviews)
Price: $99.70 per person
Duration: 3 hours

This luxurious evening cruise offers a different side of Cairns — watching the sunset over Trinity Inlet from the deck of a comfortable catamaran. The cruise includes local produce dinner and a complimentary drink. With good reviews mentioning the great food and friendly service, it’s a wonderful way to unwind after a day of exploring. The beautiful sunset views and calming waters make it a romantic option or a relaxing family night out.

Weather can be unpredictable, so some reviews note that rain might limit outdoor time, but the crew handles it well with indoor options. The dinner menu features plenty of local ingredients, making it taste authentic.

Bottom Line: For a relaxing, scenic evening with good food and drinks, this cruise offers a memorable experience in Cairns.

5. Silverswift Dive and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef Cruise

Rating: 4.5/5 (432 reviews)
Price: $212.30 per person
Duration: 10 hours

For serious marine explorers, this full-day cruise takes you to three renowned reef sites, with options to snorkel or scuba dive. The luxury catamaran is equipped for comfort, and the itinerary includes three different reef locations — Flynn, Milln, and Thetford reefs — known for abundant marine life and spectacular wall dives. You can try introductory dives, or certified divers can complete multiple dives.

The crew gets high praise for their professionalism and attention to safety. Many reviews mention how the reefs exceeded expectations, with beautiful coral gardens and lots of marine life. The full-day format makes it perfect for those who want to maximize their reef time and want an experience that’s both fun and comprehensive.

Bottom Line: For serious snorkelers and divers wanting to see the best of the reef at three sites, this tour is a top contender.

6. Authentic Indigenous Cultural Tour Including Scenic River Cruise

Rating: 5.0/5 (88 reviews)
Price: $117.63 per person
Duration: 3 hours

This 3-hour cultural tour combines river cruising with an Indigenous heritage experience. Starting with a Trinity Inlet river cruise, you’ll learn about the Mandingalbay Yidinji people through a welcome and smoking ceremony, followed by a guided bush walk. The tour includes coconut damper, tea, and fresh fruit, giving it a genuine local flavor.

What makes this tour unique is its small group size (max 20), allowing for a more personalized experience. Visitors praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see Indigenous practices firsthand. It’s especially suited for those interested in cultural insights and environmental conservation.

Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a meaningful cultural experience paired with a scenic river cruise, this tour offers depth and authenticity.

7. Full Day Reef Cruise and 10 Minute Helicopter Scenic Flight

Rating: 4.5/5 (340 reviews)
Price: $283.31 per person
Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes

This full-day adventure combines reef exploration with a short helicopter flight for stunning aerial views. Board a luxury super-yacht in Cairns and spend up to five hours at two reef sites, with plenty of time for snorkeling, scuba, or relaxing onboard. The highlight is the 10-minute helicopter ride over Hastings Reef, providing breathtaking views of the coral formations and marine life below.

The crew is praised for their professionalism and friendliness, and the lunch, a BBQ buffet, keeps everyone fueled. The tour caters to all levels, with options for certified divers and newcomers.

Bottom Line: For those wanting a comprehensive experience of the reef from the water and air, this tour hits all the right notes.

8. Great Barrier Reef Cruise – Gold Class VIP Lounge Package

Rating: 5.0/5 (58 reviews)
Price: €474.24 per group (up to 2)
Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes

This luxury tour offers access to an exclusive VIP lounge onboard a 35-meter catamaran heading to the outer reef. With dedicated concierge service and a private lounge for up to eight people, it’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds. The package includes a BBQ lunch, wines, and personalized attention.

Many reviewers emphasize how this upgrade transforms the reef trip into a personalized, comfortable experience. The snorkeling and dive options are top-notch, and the VIP treatment makes it ideal for couples or small groups wanting a special day.

Bottom Line: For travelers seeking luxury and exclusivity at the reef, this VIP package is a worthwhile splurge.

9. Ocean Spirit Sail to Michaelmas Cay Snorkel or Dive, from Cairns

Rating: 4.5/5 (170 reviews)
Price: $197.96 per person
Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes

This sailing trip to Michaelmas Cay combines a luxury catamaran cruise with semi-submersible reef tours and marine biology talks. It’s ideal for those wanting an ecological perspective on the reef, with informative presentations by marine biologists. The semi-submersible allows you to see the reef without getting wet, and the buffet lunch adds to the experience.

The small group (max 12 passengers) ensures a personalized feel. Many reviewers highlight the friendly crew and well-organized itinerary. It’s a perfect choice for eco-conscious travelers or those seeking deep educational value alongside reef exploration.

Bottom Line: For a smaller, educational reef tour, this sailing adventure offers a memorable, insightful experience.

10. Cairns Super Saver: Reef Cruise, Daintree & Kuranda Rail/Skyrail

Rating: 4.5/5 (157 reviews)
Price: $423.17 per person
Duration: 3 days

This multi-day package combines a reef cruise, Daintree Rainforest tour, and the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail. It’s a fantastic way to see all the major highlights of Tropical North Queensland without multiple bookings. The reef cruise includes visits to two outer reef sites, with snorkeling and diving options. The rainforest tour is led by a local guide, and the rail and skyrail offer incredible views of the landscape.

Many travelers appreciate how well-organized and comprehensive this package is, especially since it includes hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of marine, rainforest, and mountain experiences.

Bottom Line: For travelers who want to maximize their time and see the best of Cairns over several days, this tour provides excellent value.

How to Choose Your Perfect Water Adventure

When selecting a cruise or boat tour in Cairns, consider your budget, time, and interests. If you’re after thrills, the Cairns Jet Boat Ride offers a quick adrenaline rush. For a relaxed reef day, the Full-Day Sailing Trip or the Luxury VIP Reef Cruise might suit you better. Want a cultural experience? The Indigenous Tour provides insight into local heritage. For family-friendly options, the Riverboat Wildlife Cruise and Green Island trips are ideal.

Booking early is smart, especially for popular tours like the Great Barrier Reef Cruises, which fill quickly during peak seasons. Always check the weather forecast — some tours, like the Sunset Cruise, are weather-dependent.

Final Thoughts

Cairns and the Tropical North offer a diverse range of boat and cruise experiences. If you want thrills and speed, the Jet Boat Ride is perfect. For a luxurious reef experience, consider the Gold Class VIP Tour or the Full-Day Sailing Trip. Looking for cultural enrichment? The Indigenous Cultural Tour will deepen your understanding of local traditions.

No matter what you choose, these tours will give you a unique perspective on this stunning region. To ensure you don’t miss out, book your preferred tours early, especially during peak times. Cairns’s waters are calling — all you need to do is decide which adventure suits you best.